Exiled author Taslima Nasreen finally returns to Kolkata

Exiled Bangladeshi writer Taslima Nasreen touched down at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport on Friday, marking her first visit to Kolkata in 19 years. She expressed pure joy upon her long-awaited arrival, sharing with reporters that she really likes being back in the capital city. Back in 2007, intense local protests against her memoir 'Dwikhondito' forced her to hastily leave West Bengal. The former CPM-led government had officially banned this controversial book in 2003, claiming its contents hurt religious sentiments. Currently holding a long-term residence permit in Delhi, the 63-year-old author views this trip as a deeply personal homecoming. Her unexpected arrival has quickly triggered a sharp political exchange across the state. Trinamool MLA Akhruzzaman heavily criticised the decision, claiming the current state government welcomed her simply because she often speaks against Muslims. Conversely, Bengal minister Agnimitra Paul warmly received the returning author. Paul praised Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari for allowing this significant visit on August 1, calling it a true matter of pride and joy. She also pointed out that previous administrations actively denied the writer proper security when she needed it most.

Weekend Event Details

Nasreen will participate in a special programme protesting fundamentalism at Rabindra Sadan on Saturday. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and renowned author Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay are highly expected to attend this public gathering. Event organisers confirmed the celebrated writer will receive a civic reception, recite her selected poems, and join an interactive panel discussion. Historically, Kolkata served as a vital cultural refuge for many exiled writers seeking freedom of expression in South Asia. This weekend's event clearly highlights her ongoing fight for basic free speech, bringing her decades-long struggle full circle.